An escape from the city, a quick 30minute propeller driven plane ride (Zest Air)from Manila Terminal 4 (domestic airport), mind you there are 4 terminals so you better know which airline your flying and where do their flights fly out from. Flight was on schedule and was in Marinduque in no time at all, as we ascended and reach altitude the plane was already descending for landing - such a quick joy ride.

We are met by resort Meet & assist personnel, full welcome honors as the plane carried about 25 of the resort guests. Due to the previous weeks typhoon, the highway has been damages so after a 20 minute van ride we are transferred to an outrigger bangka for another 40minutes boat ride. As we approach the island - we see a canopy of white buildings-- reminiscent of the island of mykonos,Greece. We were not disappointed at all, our suite room was well appointed with a huge living room, 2 flatscreen plasma television, one in the living room and one in the bedroom-OMG who needs two television sets anyway-- we did not get out of th e city to catch television. The balcony had a great view of the island and lap pool below. A tour of the island resort was arranged and we saw that a third of the property have yet to be put into operational- 19 finished bungalow villas are not in operation--must be due to the prohibitive cost the resort charges-- rooms start from $600 unto $2000.00 for a private villa. We saw the family of prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde as they were the big group that came with us on the Zest air flight-such a treat.

We had all our meals in the Bellarocca Island resort- no other alternatives- in fairness the food was prepared well, the selections was wide- we went for the Kare-kare (Filipino meat & vegetable dish in peanut sauce) with shrimp paste--delightful. A breakfast buffet was available at the dining terrace.

We had the place all to ourselves and had the peace & quiet we wanted. I was able to catch on my book-- the Globe phone signal was pathetic--apparently due to the lack of electricity at the main town of Buenavista--they were experiencing Full Blackout-No electrical power as our resort was on full generator power only. There were kayaks for guest to use, another infinity pool by the ocean terrace. It was a relaxing 3d2N at the island. :-)

Shopping tips: As you travel back to the mainland /airport just ask the van driver to pass by a local house/shop who sells fish sauce-- the 100% pure fish sauce is quite fragrant with a tangible fish sweet smell- nice take away from the island.

2013 Update- just heard about the Bella Roca Resort being closed down - No more air flights to Marinduque :- ( Travel to Marinduque is possible only by a 3 hour drive & a 3 hour R0-R0 Roll-on Roll -Off Ferry Ride. The lack of direct air flights will keep Marinduque's development slower but will allow it to keep its pristine natural resources much longer.